Lesson Plan

Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Physics
Lesson Topic: solve problems using equations that represent uniformly accelerated motion in a straight line, including the motion of bodies falling in a uniform gravitational field without air resistance
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the four kinematic equations for uniformly accelerated motion and the sign convention.
  • Apply the appropriate equation to solve for unknown displacement, velocity, time, or acceleration in straight‑line motion.
  • Analyze free‑fall problems using the equations with g = 9.81 m s⁻² and correctly choose the positive direction.
  • Identify and correct common sign and unit errors in kinematic calculations.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Slide deck with equations and example problems
  • Worksheet with practice questions
  • Calculator (or smartphone calculator app)
  • Ruler or measuring tape for demonstration (optional)
  • Physics textbook or reference sheet on kinematics
Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration: drop a ball and ask students to predict how long it will take to hit the floor. Review prior knowledge of displacement, velocity, acceleration, and the importance of sign conventions. Explain that today’s success criteria are to correctly select and use the kinematic equations to solve free‑fall and projectile problems.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5') – Students solve a short problem on constant speed motion to activate prior knowledge.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Introduce sign conventions and derive the four kinematic equations, using the board and slides.
  3. Guided example 1 (10') – Work through the stone‑drop problem, modelling each step and checking signs.
  4. Guided example 2 (10') – Solve the upward‑throw problem, emphasizing selection of the correct equation.
  5. Pair practice (15') – Students complete two practice questions from the worksheet, teacher circulates to address misconceptions.
  6. Class discussion (5') – Review common mistakes, clarify any sign or unit errors observed.
  7. Exit ticket (5') – Each student writes one correct equation and a brief justification for its use in a given scenario.
Conclusion:
Summarise how the sign convention and choice of equation determine the solution of uniformly accelerated motion problems. Ask students to submit an exit ticket stating which equation they would use for a new free‑fall scenario. Assign homework: complete the remaining practice questions and reflect on any sign errors made.